VOLUNTEER

Member Monday: Susan Powalowski

Chicago Gateway Green: Why did you decide to get involved with Gateway Green?

Susan Powalowski: I had the great pleasure of working under John DeRango (Vice-Chair of the Social Media Committee) a few years back in college. We kept in touch on and off, and it was this past year that he contacted me about CGG. I knew a little bit about the organization, but it was John that really got me excited about the mission. I’ve lived in the Chicagoland area my entire life, so I’m incredibly passionate about keeping the city beautiful. This was a great way to get involved in my community!

CGG: What is your favorite thing about Chicago?

SP: Chicago really is the perfect city in that it has so much to offer. There’s something for just about every person, no matter what one is interested in. Whether it be a big park, a niche clothing store, high end cocktail lounge… It doesn’t take living here very long to understand its appeal – even in the winter time.

CGG: Tell us something random about yourself.

SP: I’m allergic to hot water. Most people think I’m lying (“No seriously, like, what are you allergic to?”), but it’s true. Hot showers, saunas and even exercising makes me break out into hives all over. Yes, I still take showers – but a daily anti-histamine gets me through them without scratching my skin off!

CGG: What is your favorite movie, book, or band?

SP: It’s slightly embarrassing, but my mother and my aunt raised me on ABBA‘s music – so they’re my favorite group. Whenever the Swedish cover band come to the Chicago area you can bet we’re there. Those two have also started practicing the dance scene during the bachelorette party in the film Mama Mia! for when my own “right of passage” occurs… can’t wait!

Did you miss last week’s featured member, Daniel Diaz? Read about him here! See you next week for another interview with one of our amazing CGG members.